Sharjah: H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), inaugurated the fifth edition of the Sharjah Booksellers Conference at Expo Centre Sharjah. The event witnessed the participation of 912 booksellers, publishers, distributors, and e-commerce platform representatives from 99 countries. The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, along with board members, officials, and representatives from cultural institutions and bookstores worldwide.
According to Emirates News Agency, the two-day conference is focused on addressing practical challenges in the bookselling industry, including inventory management, in-store book presentation, e-commerce, digital marketing, and demand analysis. The conference provides a platform for participants to network, exchange experiences, and explore business models that can help bookstores and distributors enhance their operations and connect with wider audiences.
In her keynote address, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi emphasized the vital role of booksellers in the digital age, highlighting the importance of connecting the right books with the right readers. She stressed the significance of investing in people and building their capabilities to prepare the industry for the future. As Founder of PublisHer, Sheikha Bodour also honored graduates of the inaugural PublisHer Pathways cohort, recognizing their achievements in advancing women in book publishing.
Jaime Daez, Founder and Managing Director of Fully Booked in the Philippines, delivered a keynote speech sharing insights from his company's evolution into a multi-category bookstore business. The conference also featured a discussion with Oleksii Erinchak, Founder and CEO at Sens Bookstore in Ukraine, who spoke about the challenges of sustaining a bookstore amid the ongoing escalation.
Innovation showcases included a presentation by Lisa Byrnes and Sarah Arbuthnot on 'Maximizing Sales with AI-built Websites'. The session explored how AI can enhance the online bookselling experience and support booksellers in understanding purchasing trends and expanding their reach.
The PublisHer Lounge hosted panel discussions and workshops focused on engaging readers and building demand for physical books in a digital world. The event also included a 'Meet a Mentor' programme, providing participants with opportunities for professional development and networking with female industry leaders.
The conference's workshops covered a range of topics, offering participants the chance to engage with experts and explore solutions for bookselling, distribution, and bookstore management. The first day concluded with networking opportunities and business meetings between industry professionals.
The Sharjah Booksellers Conference continues tomorrow with a professional programme aimed at exploring the challenges and opportunities in bookselling and distribution across Arab and international markets.